THE PLACE OF ACELLULAR COLLAGEN MATRIX IN THE TREATMENT OF CARTILAGE DAMAGE OF THE KNEE JOINT

The collagen matrix has established itself as the standard in the treatment of chondral and osteochondral injuries of the knee joint. Purpose: The application of this surgical technique aims at the restoration and regeneration of the defect with hyaline cartilage, which is the basis for achieving good early and long-term clinical results. Material and Methods: We present 36 patients who are surgically treated with this technique. Patients are divided into two groups according to the etiological principle. Results: Results are defined as good and very good and are comparable to the results of other similar retrospective studies. Conclusions: The method is applicable in selected cases of a traumatic and degenerative nature and is an alternative to early knee arthroplasty.